Raila Hosts Somaliland’s President Despite Foreign Affairs’ Disapproval
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga met with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and expressed his support for Somaliland’s recognition efforts.
In a move that contradicts the Kenyan government’s stance on Somaliland, Abdirahman confirmed the meeting in a statement on Tuesday, June 3.
The meeting was a farewell for Abdirahman, Raila’s guest, and came only days after Somaliland established a diplomatic liaison office in Nairobi.
Mama Ida and I hosted the President of Somaliland, H.E Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Ciro) at our home.
— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) June 3, 2025
The president was accompanied by members of his cabinet and officials from Somaliland's liaison office in Kenya. pic.twitter.com/4tUFNHEjTA
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the esteemed African statesman, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, for the gracious farewell dinner hosted in my honour and that of my delegation,” Abdirahman stated.
“Your unwavering support for Somaliland’s aspiration to claim its rightful place among the community of nations is deeply appreciated,” he added.
“Your leadership and steadfast commitment to Africa’s unity and development continue to inspire us all.”
Somaliland, led by President Abdirahman Mohamed, inaugurated a mission office in Nairobi on Thursday, May 29, despite Kenya’s initial opposition to the establishment of a Liaison Office.
The Speaker of Kenya National Assembly Rt. Hon. Dr. Moses Wentagula hosted H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi the President of the Republic of Somaliland at the parliamentary Compound.
— Mohamed Barawani, PhD (@MohamedBarawani) May 30, 2025
It was a great opportunity that both sides discussed bilateral relations of two countries. pic.twitter.com/eIciTD4Ail
However, in a swift response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the newly established Somaliland Mission, confirming its respect for Somalia’s sovereignty.
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In response to the events of Thursday, which were attended by leaders from Somaliland and Kenya, the Ministry confirmed its initial stance.
Our clarification on the status of the Somaliland Liaison Office. https://t.co/Kp06qwup55
— Korir Sing'Oei (@SingoeiAKorir) May 26, 2025
Kenya announced its opposition to the inauguration of the Republic of Somaliland’s Mission office, claiming it lacked official support.
The Kenyan government had previously indicated that the formation of a Somaliland Liaison Office could not be elevated to a diplomatic mission due to its commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity.
However, Somaliland went ahead with the inauguration, marking an important step in its quest for international recognition.
Raila Hosts Somaliland’s President Despite Foreign Affairs’ Disapproval
